Power Washing Techniques for Your Patio

If your patio has been through a few seasons of pollen, dirt, rain, or backyard barbecues, it’s probably due for a good cleaning, and power washing is one of the best ways to bring it back to life.

At Top to Bottom Cleaning and Handyman Service, we’ve helped plenty of Camden homeowners make their patios look brand new without spending a fortune. Here’s what we’ve learned about what works (and doesn’t) when power washing your patio.

Start with a Sweep

Before you do anything, sweep the area thoroughly. This will remove leaves, dirt, pine needles, and whatever else has collected on the surface. It will also help you avoid blasting debris all over the yard when the water starts flying.

Choose the Right Pressure

Not all patios are built the same—and too much pressure can do more harm than good.

• Concrete patios can handle higher pressure (up to 3000 PSI)

• Brick and stone patios need a little more care—keep the PSI between 1500–2500

• Wood decks require even lower pressure, usually under 1200 PSI to avoid damage

• The key is to test a small spot first. If it starts chipping or etching, lower the pressure.

Use the Right Nozzle

Power washers come with different nozzles. For patios, a 25-degree or 40-degree nozzle works best. It gives you a good fan spray that’s strong enough to clean, but not so strong that it damages the surface.

Stay away from the zero-degree nozzle unless you want to carve your initials into the concrete—seriously.

Spray at an Angle

Always spray at a slight angle, not straight down. This helps lift dirt and grime more effectively and prevents streaking. Move in smooth, overlapping passes so you don’t leave any missed spots.

If you’re washing a surface with gaps (like brick or deck boards), go with the grain to keep water from digging into cracks.

Use Detergent When Needed

Sometimes water alone isn’t enough—especially if you’ve got oil stains, mildew, or algae.

• Use a detergent made for power washers

• Apply it with the low-pressure soap nozzle

• Let it sit for 5–10 minutes

• Then rinse it off with higher pressure

• Make sure your cleaner is safe for your surface and nearby plants.

Mind the Edges

It’s easy to go full blast and forget the edges. Take your time around corners, trim, and any attached walls. Too much pressure here can cause damage or splash dirty water right back onto clean surfaces.

Rinse Everything Down

When you’re done, do a final rinse to ensure all detergent and loose grime are gone. Rinse off nearby furniture, walkways, or siding that may have caught some overspray.

Don't Want to Deal with It? We've Got You

Power washing seems straightforward until you start doing it and realize it’s a full-body workout. If you'd rather save your Saturday and avoid rental fees, let Top to Bottom Cleaning and Handyman Service take care of it.

We have the tools, experience, and patience to do it right the first time—without tearing up your patio or making a mess.

Call us today at 803-669-6340 or visit our webform to schedule your spring patio clean-up. We’ll have it looking fresh and ready for whatever you’ve got planned next.